Stocker could get the chance to immediately prove himself to Richmond recruiters, with Carlton set to meet its old rivals in their annual season-opening clash at the MCG next year.

Should he earn a round one debut, the big-bodied onballer is ready to show the Tigers how much he has improved his running base since they last met.

"I've always played with a chip on my shoulder," Stocker said.

"I don't mind it when I've got a little bit more motivation to go with it.

"They certainly made me very aware of what my weaknesses were, and I think I probably needed it at that stage. You can go too far in TAC Cup footy getting told how good you are and not getting told what your weaknesses are, so I certainly needed it."

Carlton traded up to secure Stocker following an impressive TAC Cup season in which the midfielder averaged 22 disposals and 5.6 clearances per game to win the Morrish Medal.